Body Image

Friends with Eating Disorders

Eating Disorders - Do's and Don'ts

DO:

  • Learn about eating disorders so you will know the signs when you see them.
  • Recognize eating disorders are potentially fatal diseases and treat them accordingly.
  • Listen to your friend with understanding, respect, and sensitivity.
  • Tell the person that you are concerned, you care, and that you would like to help.
  • Suggest the person seek professional help from a physician and/or therapist.
  • Be available when your friend needs someone.
  • Talk about things other than food, weight, counting calories, and exercise. Attempt to discuss feelings instead.
  • Share your own struggles.
  • Don't take any action alone. Get help.
  • Stay calm. These things take time. If frustrated, take a break and plan to resume the discussion at a later time.

DON'T:

  • Don't try to solve the problem for them. They need a qualified professional.
  • Don't blame them for doing something wrong or tell them they are acting silly. 
  • Don't gossip about them.
  • Don't focus on weight, the number of calories being consumed, or particular eating habits.
  • Don't make comments about a person's appearance. Concern about weight loss may be interpreted as a compliment and comments about weight gain may be seen as criticism.
  • Don't be afraid to upset them--talk to them.
  • Don't reject or ignore them--they need you.
  • Don't get involved in a power struggle around eating or other symptoms.

Copyright 2005 National Eating Disorders Association. Permission is granted to copy and reprint materials for education purposes only.

Resources:

http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/
http://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/portal/#.VLAiIivF8fU
http://namedinc.org/
http://www.usf.edu/student-affairs/counseling-center/top-concerns/bodyimageindex.aspx